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2013 ford c-max Reviews and News

We know you try to get the most out of life in every aspect. When it comes to cars, you’ve bought Toyotas. Please take a look at our new C-Max Energi. In fact, we suspect that you’ve already done some research, and it would inevitably have led you to us.

Best regards,

Ford Motor Company

That’s the direct-mail appeal we could imagine going out to Ford prospects. With the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid, Ford has something special. Enough so, in fact, to leave us wondering why anyone would still consider a battery-electric vehicle.

A Sound Basis for Better Performance

Based on the superb C-Max Hybrid, a nicer and better small wagon than the Toyota Prius v, the Energi adds capability on the electric side. In doing so it also reels in the Prius Plug-in and is only surpassed in the electric-mobility arena by the kind of supercommitment that pays diminishing dividends with maximum BEVs.

Not to say the Energi is flawless. Adding battery-storage capacity beyond that found in the C-Max Hybrid allowed the Energi to prowl around town in e-mode during our sampling. But because of the bulky 7.6-kWh lithium-ion pack, rear cargo space is diminished by 21.6 percent behind the second row and 17.8 percent behind the front row. Liftover height rises high enough to thwart a pygmy at Costco.

Meanwhile, the Energi bloats to 3899 pounds. To find some perspective on just how heavy this is, we randomly opened our Standard Catalog of American Cars, 1946-1975 to page 521 and learned that the 1961 Mercury Monterey sedan--which rode on a 120-inch wheelbase and stretched 214.6 inches in total length--weighed 3777 pounds. (The Prius Plug-in seems relatively svelte at 3165 pounds.) Compared to the C-Max Hybrid, the Energi’s suspension is fundamentally unchanged but slightly recalibrated. Despite the tweaks, though, the car felt weak-kneed and fat-bottomed on undulant roads.

Nevertheless, the priority is to surpass the Prius Plug-in, and Ford’s advantage from the outset that the Energi is better-looking. After an all-out technological assault, Ford claims the equivalent of 100 mpg combined and a gas-electric range of 620 miles. While the GT500 needn’t feel threatened, the Energi produces a Prius-busting 195 hp.

In the selectable e-mode, the Energi is capable of traveling up to 21 miles, which would be as far as Fred Flintstone usually drove in Bedrock. It would be quite possible for Fred to commute back and forth without using gasoline, and that’s why we think a one-dimensional BEV suddenly becomes undesirable. While the Energi can emulate a BEV and go across town, it can also spontaneously head out of town and across the state for the weekend, carrying recreational gear and other cargo.
Meanwhile, still in e-mode and back to its face-off with the Prius Plug-in, the Energi tops out at 85 mph. (Ford says the Prius Plug-in will do 60 mph.) Recharging can be accomplished in as little as 2.5 hours with a 240-volt supply (seven hours with 120-volt). As in the C-Max Hybrid, the Energi’s integration of electric and internal-combustion power sources is nearly seamless, and the regenerative brakes are as mellow as any we’ve encountered. Lacking athleticism though it may be, the car is pleasant enough to drive, and much credit goes to the engineering team for making it so smooth.

Adaptivity Is a Key Trait

Another important characteristic is the Energi’s EV+ feature that’s part of the SmartGauge dashboard display. By reading the navigation system, the EV+ software determines when Fred Flinstone is arriving at the quarry or starting the homebound leg of his journey. It then directs the car to stay in e-mode. This also occurs on the approach to a frequently visited intersection. Ford says it will develop additional means of using onboard data to increase efficiency in forthcoming vehicles. Meanwhile, over the long term, EV+ can be disabled, and if Fred is selling the car to his neighbor Barney Rubble, the data can be erased.

The Energi does without special external adornment besides a few badges, but its charge port includes state-of-charge illumination by means of the encircling LED indicator. Of course, the car also comes with a suite of irresistible smartphone apps that allow the remote management of charging functions; to some buyers, these apps are probably more dazzling than any bodyside adornment.

The Energi is available with such options as a hands-free liftgate, parking technology, and premium audio and navigation. From a base price of $32,950, which is $6,955 more expensive than the C-Max Hybrid, our test vehicle checked in at a healthy $36,635. That’s a chunk of change, but Ford thinks the cherished optimizers who are target buyers will find value in the C-Max Energi, even at that price.

2013 Ford C-Max Energi

Base price:$32,950, including $795 destination and delivery
As tested: $36,635

If adding complexity, cost, and mass to a car is your idea of efficiency and a Toyota Prius feels too much like wearing someone else's jeans, then take note of the 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid.

Available in Europe since 2003, the C-Max is a new nameplate for the United States. The moniker dares to convey industry slang for a C-segment vehicle that's larger than an A-segment minicar or B-segment subcompact and achieves maximum passenger volume (in this case, an impressive 99.7 cu ft). Although many years late, the C-Max Hybrid is Ford's designated Prius-fighter. And it will have help: the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid comes soon; however, being another heavyweight on a dainty platform, the Energi will have the Hybrid's major foible: occasional ponderousness.

Beyond vehicle dynamics, though, Ford has a marketing challenge as it introduces the C-Max, a widgeon amid a flock of mallards. Nevertheless, while considering odd waterfowl, the C-Max Hybrid should most definitely be cross-shopped against the cootlike Prius v. The latter has more cargo room but can boast no other significant advantage over the Ford.

Being almost identical in dimensions and specifications to the Subaru Crosstrek XV, the C-Max easily seats five yet is a tidy 14.4 feet long. With a trapezoidal grille and swept headlamps helping to compose its mute face, it looks like the Focus Electric and in a strange way reminds us of the Dancing Bear on "Captain Kangaroo." The lobate roofline could have come from a crop-dusting airplane's canopy. Satin chrome trim along the nicely drawn beltline adds distinction. Of the same delicate scheme as the Focus Electric, the elegant 17-inch wheels caused a thrill to go up our leg. As far as looks go, the C-Max Hybrid is a camisole top and pencil skirt compared to the chintz housedress of the Prius v.

Because it starts with superior underpinnings derived from the Focus, the C-Max Hybrid offers a reasonably satisfying driving experience, too, although exhilarating isn't the superlative we would use in describing acceleration. Ford didn't give us a 0 to 60 mph figure, but we definitely couldn't keep up on Sunset Boulevard with the supermodel in her Mercedes roadster. On the other hand, in the highly unlikely event she'd been so inclined, she wouldn't have been able to tail us as we tried to elude her over the 570 miles the C-Max Hybrid can deliver on one 13.5-gallon tank of regular fuel. So take that, Beverly Hills!

Under the C-Max Hybrid's hood is a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder of the Atkinson Cycle persuasion, which in the name of efficiency relies on extended valve openings for a lengthened power stroke. The gas engine receives assistance from a permanent-magnet AC synchronous motor and small lithium-ion battery pack to contribute as much as 35 kW of oomph, resulting in the equivalent of 188 hp. Teamed with a continuously variable transmission of Ford's own manufacture, the C-Max Hybrid achieves 47/47 mpg city/highway, which surpasses the Prius v by 3/7 mpg city/hwy. With all sirens wailing, the C-Max Hybrid hits its top speed of 115 mph. In electric mode 62 mph is possible, although we imagine the car heading from west to east across the downward sloping plain of Kansas with a mighty Chinook tailwind. If we could introduce one improvement, we would add the Crosstrek's CVT paddle shifters and emulate six fixed ratios. But a satisfactory aspect is found on the C-Max Hybrid's centrally located shift lever, where a button actuates a downhill descent mode that wakes the engine, using it as a brake -- a useful thing in the Santa Monica Mountains. We also must praise the seamless interaction between gasoline and electric powertrain components, not to mention the near invisibility of the regenerative braking system. Touche, Ford!

The C-Max Hybrid starts at $25,995 in SE trim. While it can be had with the optional panoramic roof and other key features, the SE's interior is upholstered in a scratchy synthetic fabric that might be easy to clean but is no match for the SEL's wonderful standard leather. Our SEL tester also had navigation, hands-free technology, a rear-view camera, and the keyless tailgate that's a must: just insert your toe under the rear bumper, step back, and the door lifts or closes itself. Other gadgetry includes the cartoony effects of the instrument cluster, better known as SmartGauge with EcoGuide, presenting whizbang displays of efficiency and consumption in addition to such basics as speed and distance. Unexpected extras were the overhead sound siphons of the active noise cancellation system; these lead us to say we think the car is quieter than the Black Keys in live performance.
The C-Max Hybrid's worst trait is the stilted way it took bumps on the Ventura Freeway. At speed, the car's corpulence is too evident. We wish it could weigh 1250 pounds less, but it doesn't. Never mind that the Prius v drives almost robotically. Where the C-Max Hybrid has its most obvious advantage, besides a somewhat lower sticker price, is that it excels as an example of discerning design. It's a very pleasant car to sit in, to drive, or just to lean on.

We were also impressed by the Ford employees who showed off their new baby, which is on sale now. They're a confident bunch. The company has compelling leadership and a clear strategy, so the team appears unified. If they keep up the excellence they've shown so far in carrying out their electrification program, they'll be knocking some heads together.

New For 2013

Everything—the C-Max is a new vehicle for Ford’s U.S. lineup, although it has been on sale in other markets for several years.

Overview

Although the nameplate has been used in Europe for almost a decade, the C-Max is an all-new vehicle for the American market. Ford’s designated Toyota Prius fighter, the C-Max is a four-door hatchback with a hybrid powertrain. The 141-hp, 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine is aided by a 118-hp electric motor and a small lithium-ion battery pack, resulting in a peak total of 188 hp. (This hybrid powertrain is also used in the new Fusion.) It teams with a continuously variable transmission to earn the C-Max a rating of 47 mpg in both city and highway driving, which surpasses the Prius V by 3 mpg in the city and 7 mpg on the highway. In electric mode, 62 mph is possible. Commendably, the interaction between the gas and electric powertrain components is seamless. Before the end of the year, we’ll see the C-Max Energi, a plug-in hybrid that will afford greater electric-only range. The C-Max delivers more than just good fuel economy, however. Its accommodations are quite roomy, with an impressive 99.7 cubic feet of passenger volume and the added versatility of 60/40-split fold-flat rear seats and second-row in-floor storage bins. As with all new Fords of late, the C-Max can be had with a raft of high-tech goodies, such as Sync with MyFord Touch, navigation, active park assist, and a power foot-activated liftgate.

Safety

Front, side, side curtain, and driver’s knee air bags; ABS; traction and stability control; tire-pressure monitors; the SOS Post-Crash Alert System; programmable MyKey; and integrated blind-spot mirrors are standard. A rearview camera and a reverse sensing system are available.

You'll like:

Fuel economy

Versatile packaging

Reasonably priced

You won't like:

Heavy

Late to the hybrid party

Key Competitors For The 2013 Ford C-Max

What cocktails go best with all this car chatter? Automobilemag.com is here to help with weekly recipes. Remember, this is for talking about cars, not driving — always designate a driver. This week's cocktail comes from Diamond Jim Brady's in Novi, Michigan. The Pimm's Ginger is both simple and delicious: it combines equal parts of Pimm's No. 1, ginger ale, and lemon juice, shaken with ice, and served in a rocks class with a mint garnish.

Ford has gotten a lot of flak lately for its new lineup of hybrid models because many owners and numerous automotive publications have alleged the vehicles do not live up to their lofty EPA fuel economy estimates. Some owners have even sued the company because of the apparently inflated estimates.

If you're keeping score at home, the price difference between the C-Max Energi and the regular Ford C-Max is exactly $4550. What does the extra money get you? A big surprise when you pop the C-Max Energi's optional power liftgate: 5.3 cubic feet of the cargo area is filled with a 7.8 kWh battery pack, charged exclusively by the plug located just beneath the A-pillar window insert. It's enough to power the C-Max, gas-free, for up to 21 miles.

Warranty

Recalls

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:40

Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 C-MAX, and Escape vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the restraint control module (RCM) may have errors in the programming software which may result in a delayed deployment of the side-curtain rollover air bag.

Consequences

If the side-curtain rollover air bag is delayed in deploying in certain rollover circumstances, the risk of injury to the passengers is increased.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the RCM, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S04.

Potential Units Affected

594,785

Notes

Ford Motor Company

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:40

Component

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 C-MAX, and Escape vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the restraint control module (RCM) may have errors in the programming software which may result in a delayed deployment of the side-curtain rollover air bag.

Consequences

If the side-curtain rollover air bag is delayed in deploying in certain rollover circumstances, the risk of injury to the passengers is increased.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the RCM, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S04.

Potential Units Affected

594,785

Notes

Ford Motor Company

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:40

Component

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured August 15, 2012, through September 10, 2013, 2013-2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured June 5, 2012, through August 12, 2013, and 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured from July 23, 2012, through May 28, 2013. The driver and passenger seatback assemblies may have been produced with sub-standard weld joints used to attach the seat back recliner mechanism to the seat frame. The affected seat backs may have insufficient strength to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems."

Consequences

The back of the subject seats may become loose or lean while driving and potentially increase the risk of injury in certain crashes.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seatback, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14C03.

Potential Units Affected

43,135

Notes

Ford Motor Company

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:40

Component

AIR BAGS

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to September 30, 2013. The coating on portions of the Restraint Control Module (RCM) may crack, and when exposed to humidity, circuits on the printed circuit board may short.

Consequences

The short circuits could cause the frontal air bags, side curtain air bags and the seat belt pretensioners to not function as intended when needed, increasing the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RCM, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. The recall began on May 26,2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S21.

Potential Units Affected

746,842

Notes

Ford Motor Company

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:40

Component

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to September 30, 2013. The coating on portions of the Restraint Control Module (RCM) may crack, and when exposed to humidity, circuits on the printed circuit board may short.

Consequences

The short circuits could cause the frontal air bags, side curtain air bags and the seat belt pretensioners to not function as intended when needed, increasing the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RCM, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. The recall began on May 26,2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S21.

Potential Units Affected

746,842

Notes

Ford Motor Company

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:40

Component

SEAT BELTS

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to September 30, 2013. The coating on portions of the Restraint Control Module (RCM) may crack, and when exposed to humidity, circuits on the printed circuit board may short.

Consequences

The short circuits could cause the frontal air bags, side curtain air bags and the seat belt pretensioners to not function as intended when needed, increasing the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RCM, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. The recall began on May 26,2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S21.